Why is FIFA covering Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte's wages?
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Ugarte suffered a serious injury during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
It was anticipated that Manuel Ugarte would depart Manchester United this summer. Regretfully, the midfield player hasn’t been able to solidify himself at United after two years of playing.
He was brought in as Casemiro’s heir. Sadly, United are still looking for a replacement for the seasoned Brazilian.
Manuel Ugarte could have been sold this summer if all had gone according to plan. The Uruguayan was supposed to follow Casemiro out the door.
However, during Uruguay’s 1-0 World Cup 2026 match loss to Spain, the United number 25 had a serious cruciate knee ligament injury.
Ugarte will now be sidelined for an extended period of time. Plans to sell him have consequently had to be delayed. The 20-time English champions must instead focus on aiding him through his rehabilitation.
FIFA to cover 80% of Manuel Ugarte’s salary
As per the Telegraph, Ugarte was hurt on World Cup duty; FIFA will be covering the equivalent of approximately 80 per cent of his £150,000-a-week wage while he remains sidelined under the world governing body’s club protection policy.
It is undoubtedly encouraging that FIFA’s club protection policy pays the earnings of players injured on international duty.
Hopefully, it offers United a bit of breathing room as far as their wages are concerned.
Nevertheless, United undoubtedly have the funds to sign Ugarte’s replacement. It will not affect their wage structure, with most of Ugarte’s salary being covered by FIFA.
In the meantime, INEOS are exploring defensive midfield possibilities and determining who to sign in order to successfully replace Casemiro and Ugarte. They are looking to add some defensive stability in the middle of the pitch.
Which injury did Manuel Ugarte suffer?
He has sustained an ACL injury.
How long will Manuel Ugarte be out?
He is sidelined for 9 to 12 months.
How much salary will FIFA cover for Manuel Ugarte?
FIFA will be covering approximately 80% of his £150,000 weekly wage.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.